July 13, 2025: Train Accident Today – Train services on the busy Chennai–Arakkonam route were severely disrupted early Sunday morning after a crude oil tanker on a freight train caught fire near Thiruvallur.
The freight train, carrying 45 tankers of crude oil, had departed from Ennore in Chennai and was headed towards Mumbai. The fire broke out around 5 a.m. near Egattur, causing panic and a swift response from railway and fire department authorities.
According to railway officials, one of the tankers suddenly ignited, and the flames quickly spread to adjacent tankers. Thick plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the site, prompting immediate evacuation of the surrounding area as a precautionary measure.
Firefighting teams rushed to the spot and managed to contain the blaze after several hours. There were no immediate reports of casualties, but railway services on the Chennai–Arakkonam section were temporarily halted, affecting both passenger and freight traffic.
Senior railway officials and emergency teams are investigating the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest a possible mechanical fault or leakage in the affected tanker.
Authorities have advised passengers to check train schedules before traveling, as delays and cancellations are expected through the day.
Further updates are awaited as the situation develops.